BEIRUT: Jewish artifacts, including ancient parchment torahs from one of the world’s oldest synagogues, have gone missing from the Syrian capital amid the tumult of ongoing civil war, with some precious items reportedly surfacing abroad.
Activists say the artifacts, moved from the now-destroyed Jobar Synagogue in Damascus’ eastern Ghouta suburb when it was taken by rebels, were allegedly put into safe keeping to avoid theft and damage in 2013, but twice since then local officials have discovered some are missing.
The main missing cache, they say, contained torahs written on gazelle leather as well as tapestries and chandeliers, and was given to a militia by a local council for safekeeping when rebels surrendered the neighborhood to government forces earlier this year. The armed group says it doesn’t have the items.
Jewish artifacts disappear from Damascus in fog of Syria war
Jewish artifacts disappear from Damascus in fog of Syria war
- The main missing cache, they say, contained torahs written on gazelle leather as well as tapestries and chandeliers
- Activists say the artifacts, moved from the now-destroyed Jobar Synagogue in Damascus’ eastern Ghouta suburb when it was taken by rebels
Abbas says Palestinians stand in solidarity with Jordan amid US-Iran tensions
- Palestinian president condemned Iranian attacks targeting Jordan
- Al-Aqsa Mosque has remained closed since Saturday morning as Israeli authorities declared a state of emergency
LONDON: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed solidarity with Jordan during a phone call with King Abdullah II on Tuesday.
Abbas condemned the Iranian attacks targeting Jordan, reaffirming the Palestinian rejection of any assault that undermines Jordan’s sovereignty or threatens its security and stability, according to Wafa news agency.
After the military actions by the Israeli and US forces in Iran on Saturday, Iran launched suicide drones and missiles into the cities of the Arab Gulf. It also targeted US fighter jets deployed in Azraq, while some missiles struck civilian areas.
Abbas highlighted the importance of dialogue and expressed support for Arab efforts to protect Arab nations, and ensure their security against attacks that violate international law, Wafa added.
For the fourth consecutive day, Israeli forces have intensified military measures throughout the occupied West Bank, closing checkpoints and entrances to cities, towns and villages.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque in the walled city of occupied East Jerusalem has remained closed since Saturday morning, as Israeli authorities declared a state of emergency amid the conflict with Iran.
